Only one spot on this planet is a national park, a UNESCO site, and a wonder of the world: Grand Canyon National Park. Protecting one of the most scenic canyons on Earth, this Arizona spot—a 3.5-hour drive from Phoenix—is a favorite of road-trippers, Route 66-ers, National Park lovers, and anyone chasing America’s Wild West. While simply gazing over the rim is a bucket-list checkmark, for outdoorsy travelers, hiking, biking, wildlife-watching, and stargazing are just a few of the best things to do in Grand Canyon National Park.
Grand Canyon National Park’s busiest season is also one of its worst for weather: Summer brings in rain, high temperatures, and crowds. You’ll have a much better time visiting the park during the shoulder seasons of April–May and September–October. If you’re eyeing the more-secluded North Rim (only 10 percent of all Grand Canyon visitors see this side of the canyon!), keep in mind that this high-elevation spot is only open May 15–Oct. 15, weather permitting.
You’ll have no issue getting around Grand Canyon National Park—free shuttles traverse the South Rim regularly, even stopping at viewpoints where personal vehicles aren’t permitted. The Grand Canyon Railway runs year-round as do guided tours, and from May–October, there’s rim-to-rim shuttle service as well. Beyond motorized, on-the-ground transport, consider mule trips, horseback riding, helicopter tours, or rafting the Colorado River to discover a wilder side of the canyon.
If you’re looking for the Grand Canyon Skywalk, that glass marvel hangs off the canyon’s western rim, technically on the tribal lands of the Hualapai. Pair walking “off the edge” with a self-guided tour of the Native American Village at Eagle Point. This area known as Grand Canyon West is only 90 minutes from Las Vegas, making it a great day-trip option for quick-hitting visitors.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone MST (UTC -7) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 22 | Tours 47 | Reviews 5,997 |
At Grand Canyon National Park, you get a view of the 1,902-mile (3,061-kilometer) canyon itself, plus get insight into millions of years of Earth history, see ancient petroglyphs, experience classic national park architecture at places like the El Tovar Hotel, spot high desert wildlife, and more.
...MoreThe month to visit Grand Canyon National Park is April, although May is good, too. As national parks get more popular, big-ticket parks like Grand Canyon get more crowded, especially in summer. Shoulder seasons are your best bet for having good weather without the crowds. Once June hits, visitation swells.
...MoreYou’ll want at least two days at Grand Canyon National Park, but three is better. With an overnight stay, you’ll experience the park in all its hues, from evening’s twilight to morning’s warm glow. You’ll also be able to tackle a couple of hikes—the Bright Angel Trail is popular.
...MoreIf you want the views you’ve seen in magazines and on Instagram, head to the South Rim’s designated lookouts including Mather, Hopi, and Shoshone points. If you’ve got the hiking bug, check out Plateau Point on Bright Angel Trail—after some 100 switchbacks, you’ll see unbeatable views of the Colorado River.
...MoreHere are five ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon. Hike on popular trails (South Rim or Bright Angel trails). Snap pictures on the rim. Cruise down Desert View Drive. Eat at the El Tovar Dining Room. And walk on the glass Grand Canyon Skywalk, hanging over the East Rim.
...MoreGrand Canyon National Park is known for having one of the largest canyons in the world, clocking in at 1,902 square miles (3,061 square kilometers). It’s also home to plenty of hikes, tangible Indigenous history, and El Tovar Hotel, one of the National Park Service’s most historic lodges.
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